Bhubaneswar, Nov 19: The Odisha Forestry Sector Development Society (OFSDS), under the Department of Forest, Environment and Climate Change, Government of Odisha, organized a state-level conference titled ‘Sameekshya 2025’ at a hotel here on Wednesday, officials said.

The theme of the conference was “Livelihood, Sustainability & Way Forward under Odisha Forestry Sector Development Project, Phase-II (OFSDP-II).”

Leadership and Vision

The Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forestry Force, Odisha, Suresh Pant, IFS, graced the occasion as Chief Guest. He emphasized that livelihood promotion of forest fringe communities is key to effective conservation and sustainable forest management. He also praised the project’s efforts in converging government schemes and preparing for the next phase of operations.

Achievements of OFSDP-II

In his opening address, Dr. K. Murugesan, IFS, PCCF (Projects) & Project Director, OFSDS, highlighted that OFSDP-II has mobilized Rs704.55 crore through convergence of 37 departments, benefitting 25.80 lakh people. He noted that 1,211 Vana Surakhya Samitis (VSSs) and 10 Eco-Development Committees (EDCs) are actively engaged in forest protection and livelihood promotion. The Revolving Fund initiative has disbursed Rs28.85 crore, with Rs20.85 crore refunded, benefitting 45,759 individuals including 36,672 women and 3,013 SHGs.

Technical Sessions

The conference featured three technical sessions:

Session I: Case studies on sustainable livelihood achievements, with presentations from TRIFED, KIIT-TBI, KVIC, SFDA Kerala, and NABARD.

Session II: Success stories from Dhenkanal, Athamalik, and Jharsuguda Forest Divisions.

Session III: Brainstorming on consolidating Phase-II achievements and strategizing for Phase-III.

Participation and Collaboration

The event was attended by RCCFs, DFOs, partner NGOs, PMU officials, experts from Project Management Consultants, MMSA representatives, and members of VSS. The conference concluded with a vote of thanks by Yasobanta Beriha, Deputy Project Director (A&F), OFSDS.

‘Sameekshya 2025’ served as a platform to consolidate achievements of OFSDP-II and chart a roadmap for Phase-III, reinforcing Odisha’s commitment to sustainable forestry and community development.